With Hartford high school students at a downtown theater, Malloy said too many teens are dying because of texting while driving.

"The reality is drivers 16 to 19 years old are four times more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident," Malloy said. "In the next year, 400,000 will be injured as a result of distracted driving and 7,000 will be in Connecticut."

"Put down that phone. Stop texting and pay attention. Let's be safe out there," the governor said.

Connecticut has already passed prohibitions against using cellphones while driving, and laws adopted this year ban using a cellphone even at a stop sign or other temporary standstill. Fines were also increased.

Some of that legislative activity came after Kenneth Dorsey, 44, of Norwalk, was killed last year when a teenage New Canaan driver struck him while operating a cellphone.

A new state campaign, run with the help of AT&T, is being launched to educate young drivers. Dubbed "It Can Wait," the program and accompanying video will be offered in schools.

The state is also renewing its contest in which high schools compete for $15,000 in prizes for the best public service announcement.

"We know the dangers -- and the consequences -- of distracted driving, particularly for inexperienced drivers," said state Attorney General George Jepsen.

"But all drivers, young or old, need to obey the law when it comes to electronic devices. Remember, nothing you have to say is worth risking your life or others," Jepsen said.